The Atlantic ICW section that passes behind shallow Browns Inlet, south of Swansboro, NC,  has been an AICW Problem Stretch for only a few years now. Formerly, shoaling was never a problem here. HOWEVER, that has changed in a big way, even though this intersection was dredged in March, 2010.

Clearly shoaling has reappeared since the dredge disappeared over the horizon. Check out just how difficult this situation has become by going to:

http://www.CruisersNet.net/grounding-at-intersection-of-aicw-and-browns-inlet-statute-mile-237

You might also want to check out the entry for these waters in our "AICW Problem Stretches Directory" at:

http://www.CruisersNet.net/intersection-of-aicw-and-browns-inlet

The so-called Sunshine Skyway fishing piers were originally part of the approaches to both sides of the old bridge which used to span the mouth of Tampa Bay. This structure was tragically struck by a barge many years ago in a blinding rainstorm. The center span collapsed, and several cars and one large bus drove right off the bridge, due to the almost complete lack of visibility. 

Anyway, presumably these old roadways have deteriorated, and are being removed. A check of chart 11411 reveals that work on the north side "pier" will come somewhat close to the southerly genesis of the Sunshine Skyway Channel, while removal of the southern "pier," will probably be of less concern to cruising captains. However, ALL boats cruising under the Skyway Bridge should be on the alert for barges and other equipment while this removal project goes forward.

There is probably no truer indication on the North Carolina coastline that high summer has arrived, than the appearance of "duck weed" on the Dismal Swamp Canal.  Duck Weed is a green, featherly like growth that, when conditions are right, can cover the Dismal's path like a carpet. 

The historic Dismal Swamp Canal itself is an integral part of an alternate AICW route, that stretches from just south of Norfolk, VA, to the headwaters of North Carolina's Pasquotank River (and eventually to super friendly Elizabeth City, North Carolina).

A few days ago, we received a series of wonderful photos from Captain Jim Powell, taken along the Dismal Swamp Canal. We won't spoil  the surprise, and will only note that these images confirm, for sure, that high summer is indeed here (not that you would have doubted it considering the North Carolina levels of heat and humidity of late).  Please take a look at:

http://www.CruisersNet.net/duckweed-lies-on-the-dismal-swamp-canal-route

Before leaving this topic, note the reference to "friendly" Elizabeth City in the remarks above. Indeed, few ports of call have such an enviable reputation for welcoming cruising visitors with open arms than that boasted by this SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS' NET SPONSOR! Just this week, we received further confirmation of this well deserved reputation. Take a look at:

http://www.CruisersNet.net/warm-praise-for-elizabeth-city-nc-dismal-swamp-canal-route-st-m-50-5

Beaufort is one of South Carolina's most charming port of calls, and, during this month, July of 2011, there will be a host of special events commemorating their 56'th "Water Festival. Sounds like a GREAT place to be!

Full details at:

And, by the way, while attending the Water Festival, please make sure to coil your lines at one of the three area facilities who are SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS NET SPONSORS:

Downtown Marina of Beaufort

Dataw Island Marina

Port Royal Landing Marina

We have just posted a very interesting message from St. Augustine, Florida Port Commissioner, Captain Jay Bliss. He not only contradicts an announcement in the latest "Notice to Mariners," but relates very important information for anyone attempting to navigate this shoal plagued seaward cut. So, if that describes you, run, don't walk to:

Oriental, North Carolina is one of the Tar Heel state's most popular ports of call, and the unofficial sailing capital of the state. That popularity might just have a little something to do with its position astride the AICW's trek up and down the Neuse River.

For years, there has been a free town dock on the inner harbor. Now, a second town dock is being proposed, and the Salty Southeast Cruisers' Net is soliciting input from the cruising community concerning this new structure. We'll pass your comments along to the town officials in Oriental.

Check out:

This is the second time in this Alert that the name of Captain Jay Bliss, St. Augustine Port Commissioner, has surfaced. Captain Jay has been one of the most tireless proponents of cruisers' rights in the struggle to formulate anchorage regulations surrounding the city of St. Augustine's participation in the Florida Pilot Mooring Field Program.

In a recent SSECN posting, Captain Bliss attempts to explain to Cruisers' Net readers the intricate process that the proposed regulations from the various municipalities and counties participating in the Pilot Mooring Field Program, must follow. If you are at all interested in the issue of Florida Anchoring Rights, this message makes for interesting, if legalistic, reading:

That's all for now. Good luck and good cruising to all!